Optimizing blood flow in patients on veno-venous ECMO

Reduction of Blood Recirculation in Veno-Venous ECMO Through Ultrasound Dilution Measurements (ECMO Circulation Study)

Observational Charite University, Berlin, Germany · NCT04754854

This study is testing if adjusting blood flow during ECMO treatment can help patients with severe breathing problems get better oxygen without needing as much blood flow.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment136 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorCharite University, Berlin, Germany Academic / other
Locations1 site (Berlin)
Trial IDNCT04754854 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to measure the recirculation fraction (Rf) of blood in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) undergoing veno-venous ECMO. By utilizing an ultrasound dilution technique, the study will assess how optimizing ECMO blood flow based on Rf measurements can improve systemic oxygenation. The goal is to reduce ECMO blood flow without compromising patient oxygenation, potentially enhancing treatment outcomes for those on ECMO support.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 years or older who require veno-venous ECMO due to refractory hypoxemia from ARDS.

Not a fit: Patients who do not require veno-venous ECMO or those with conditions that preclude ECMO support may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved oxygenation and reduced complications for patients on veno-venous ECMO.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies, such as the 'Blood Recirculation and vvECMO' trial, have shown promising results in optimizing ECMO blood flow, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Patients aged 18 years or older requiring veno-venous ECMO for treatment of refractory hypoxemia in ARDS.

Where this trial is running

Berlin

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Extracorporeal Membrane OxygenationAcute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.